Newcastle disease virus
Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects birds, particularly domestic poultry like chickens and turkeys. It belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family and can cause severe respiratory, neurological, and digestive issues in infected birds. The virus is named after Newcastle upon Tyne, England, where it was first identified in 1926.
NDV can spread through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, making it a significant concern for the poultry industry. Vaccination is a common preventive measure, and controlling outbreaks is crucial to protect both animal health and food security.